Baltic Volunteer Fire Department

The council discussed a donation to the Dell Rapids Ambulance Service for the 2026 budget, and Panther Graphics was approved to provide City of Baltic clothing for staff and resale. The council also discussed the relocation of a frisbee golf hole, commercial property owners addressing deteriorating structures, and the Comprehensive Plan. Eric Comes was appointed as Ward 2 Alderman. Updates were provided on the Oak & Ash Project, Main Lift Station, Transportation Alternatives Grant, and 5th Street Improvements. Issues at the City of Baltic Rubble Site were addressed, and a date was set for the budget preparation meeting. The council discussed when the City of Baltic wants to hold the next election with the new changes in legislation.

The meeting addressed several agenda items, starting with the approval of the agenda and the preceding minutes. The Council reviewed and approved the amended Claims Payable. Key discussions included a request for approval of a $399 toolbox for the maintenance department's vehicle and the Finance Office's request to purchase Welcome Bags for new citizens, including obtaining quotes for magazine materials. Under New Business, the Council revised Ordinance #281 to lower the department head spending limit from $1,000 to $500 and remove outdated City Administrator information. The Council also approved a Resolution on Conflicts of Interest, reviewed a new Notice of Utility Termination, approved the annual Agreement for Legal Services, and noted that an update to Zoning Regulations Chapter 6 needs publishing. The Engineering update confirmed the Oak & Ash Improvements project was closed out, provided an update on the Main Lift Station sitework, and noted that the Transportation Alternative Grant is pending and 5th Street projects are awaiting spring conditions. An Executive Session was held between 8:01 PM and 8:33 PM.

The council discussed public works updates, including mowing the water retention area near the school. They considered using settlement agreement funds for park improvements, such as concrete bleacher foundations and upgrades to the east diamond with a concession stand and shelter. They also discussed reaching out to contractors for bids on concrete work and fence installation for the ball fields. Additional topics included ordering aerine for the fields, potential collaboration with the school for a third softball field, and concerns about illegal dumping at the dump site, with potential solutions like gating and cameras being considered.

The meeting included discussion and approval of previous meeting minutes. A public hearing was postponed due to procedural defects. Plans for proposed apartments and businesses at Baltic Square were presented, with citizens expressing both support and opposition. Concerns were raised about the project's alignment with plans for Lovely Avenue. The meeting was reopened to read a letter from the City Engineer regarding the Baltic Square rezoning request, noting that the request does not comply with the City of Baltic Comprehensive Plan.